When did the safety of our kids being #1 priority on the mat disappear? Over the past several weeks I have seen more referees let dangerous positions go with no regard to injury... that is not where the disregard for safety ends.. Rule 2 in the rules modification for Sanctioned Tournaments is states:

Every wrestling area, no matter what size, must have three (3) foot safety mat area next to any floor surface or five (5) from any wall or post.

I have seen relief areas a foot in length and within 2 feet of a table. Why are we trying to cram an extra surface in by neglecting the safety of our kids?

Today my son injured his shoulder and he is clearly screaming in pain and I yelled to stop the match 3 times and finally got him to stop when I ran out there but a little too late. Video is painful to watch as a parent and this must be fixed.

Anyone have any ideas on how we can make our kids safe again?

I have no answers. But I do agree with everything you have stated. You are not alone in your thoughts I guarantee you that. I have seen it way to many times. Safety first!!!!!!!

http://s156.photobucket.com/user/HokaHeyCoach/library/?sort=3&page=1

How do you not stop this? This match went on for 3-4 more seconds while I am pleading to him to stop the match.. started an arm lever right as I got him to stop it. Early diagnosis is capsule rupture. MRI later this week. Sad that a 9 year old is facing possible surgery and potentially ending his wrestling for good... this stuff CAN be prevented.